Man Utd teenager could start Premier League campaign – Solskjaer

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says 17-year-old striker Mason Greenwood is a chance to start the first game of the Premier League campaign after scoring his first goal for United’s senior side against Leeds United on Wednesday night.

The Red Devils kick off their 2019/20 Premier League season against Chelsea at Old Trafford on August 12.

Photo: Ngau Kai Yan

“He’s got a chance to start that one, definitely,” Solskjaer said after United’s 4-0 victory over Leeds at Optus Stadium in Perth.

“It’s difficult to keep players out that perform well.

“He’s capable, more than capable and he’ll always be there in and around the box creating chances.

“I won’t say it’s not a possibility, no, it’s a good possibility if he keeps going as he does.”

Greenwood started the match as part of a young United strike force which also included new Swansea City recruit Daniel James and star man Marcus Rashford.

Greenwood struck from close range early in the match after a perfect cut back from Aaron Wan-Bissaka from the right by-line found him ahead of his defender in the six-yard-box.

The crowd erupted as their young gun wheeled away in celebration; the first time they’ve seen him do so in the senior side.

Photo: Ngau Kai Yan

And Solskaer believes Greenwood’s first goal would be the catalyst for many, many more.

“It’s important for strikers to get that goal even though we always have said and we know that he’s capable of scoring goals, so that first goal is going to be a weight off his shoulders,” Solskjaer said.

“I think with his movement and his cleverness, he’s going to be a very good player, the young boy.

“He can play all the front three positions, or front four really. He can play at ten, seven, nine, 11, he’s a natural footballer.

“He’s got two feet but with his left foot as well coming in, he can play anywhere along the front line.

Photo: Ngau Kai Yan

“You see a talented boy there and he’s got every opportunity to make it as a United player.

“Of course it’s also going to be about luck, staying clear of injuries and being professional, but I’m sure he’s going to grab his chance because he’s got everything there for him.”